Understanding Supply Chain Management
What is the main goal of supply chain management?
To oversee the flow of goods, information, and resources from production to final sale.
What type of technology records product data like temperature or location during transport?
Sensors and RFID tags.
What global event revealed major weaknesses in supply chains?
The COVID-19 pandemic.
What is the main shift from traditional to digital supply chains?
From cost-focused to technology-driven systems emphasizing speed and flexibility.
How does Walmart track its products from supplier to shelf?
With barcodes and RFID chips connected to a central data system.
Name two types of entities involved in a supply chain.
Suppliers, manufacturers, transportation providers, warehouses, retailers.
How does GPS technology improve supply chain efficiency?
It tracks vehicles in real time, optimizes routes, and reduces fuel and delay costs.
What is “supply chain diversification,” and why is it important?
Using multiple suppliers to reduce risk if one fails.
Name one emerging technology shaping the future of supply chains.
Drones, autonomous vehicles, or Internet of Things (IoT) devices.
What technology does Walmart use to monitor delivery trucks in real time?
GPS tracking systems.
How do effective supply chains benefit businesses and consumers?
They reduce costs, improve efficiency, and ensure timely product delivery.
What advantage does cloud computing offer to supply chain managers?
It centralizes data, allows remote access, and enables real-time coordination.
DAILY DOUBLE - - - How do automation and robotics improve warehouse operations during crises?
They reduce labor dependence, speed up processes, and maintain safety.
Why are new workforce skills important for future supply chain jobs?
Workers must understand digital systems, data analysis, and automation tools.
How did Walmart use predictive analytics during the COVID-19 pandemic?
To forecast demand and adjust purchasing and distribution for essential goods.
Why is real-time information important in supply chain management?
It helps track goods, respond to changes, and make quick adjustments to disruptions.
How do machine learning algorithms help predict and solve supply chain problems?
They analyze data to forecast demand, detect risks, and recommend improvements.
How does the U.S. government help protect critical supply chains?
Through public-private partnerships, digital monitoring, and cybersecurity measures.
What ethical challenges can arise from digital supply chains?
Issues involving data privacy, surveillance, and cybersecurity.
What role does blockchain play in Walmart’s food supply chain?
It tracks food from farms to stores for safety and contamination control.
How can disruptions in the supply chain affect the U.S. economy?
They can cause shortages, raise prices, and impact national security and trade.
What is blockchain, and how does it increase supply chain transparency?
A secure digital ledger that tracks transactions to prevent fraud and verify authenticity.
What technologies are used to manage climate-related supply chain disruptions?
Satellite imagery, weather prediction tools, and environmental sensors.
How do digital tools make supply chains more sustainable and resilient?
They reduce waste, improve coordination, and track environmental progress.
How does automation help Walmart improve warehouse and fulfillment efficiency?
Robots and machines sort, move, and pack goods faster and more accurately.